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So you've decided to buy a handgun. But what's subsequent? Contrary to what some folks declare, you may't just walk into a store and purchase a gun as simply as you will get bread or milk — but even when you could, there are still good reasons to take your time and think carefully throughout the process.

Why Do You Need a Handgun?

The primary query you might want to answer is "Why do I need a handgun?" Most people have considered one of three answers: for self-defense, for leisure shooting or for hunting. Most handguns are designed primarily for one of these makes use of, and if you happen to purchase one ill-suited to your wants, you will likely have a disappointing experience.

Self-defense handguns typically have good stopping power (more on calibers a bit later), streamlined controls and either a high capacity or good concealability. Sporting handguns are usually small-caliber, affordable and mechanically simple, although organized shooting sport leagues can require all manner of handguns. Hunting handguns are typically heavy, large-caliber revolvers that require confidence and expertise to handle correctly.

In the event you take some time to get really clear on why you need a handgun and what you want it to do for you, the research and shopping phases will be more productive and enjoyable, and you'll be more glad with your purchase within the long run.

Know the Law

Should you live in the U.S., you must know and abide by federal, state and county firearm laws. In cases where laws from totally different jurisdictions contradict one another, the stricter law applies.

The first step in changing into a responsible handgun owner is to grow to be totally familiar with these laws. Internet research is an effective place to start, but it's finest to cross-reference everything you discover towards several different sources to ensure the information is accurate. Finally, we recommend checking with your local police department or sheriff's office. They might help you ensure that you understand the law, and most will provide concise pamphlets or web pages which you could reference later.

Certain federal laws are fairly primary and apply to all gun owners in all states. To be able to buy a handgun legally, you must:

Not have a criminal record, with sure limited exceptions

Pass a strict background check (if you happen to're shopping for a gun from a licensed firearm dealer; private sellers should not required to conduct background checks on buyers, however most do anyway)

Not suffer from sure mental illnesses that may impair your judgment

Not have undergone treatment for drug or alcohol addiction within the final 5 years

Be a U.S. citizen or authorized immigrant

Be at least 18 if shopping for from a private seller or 21 if shopping for from a licensed dealer (note that in most (if not all) states, the minimum age to carry a handgun in public is 21. Also, there is no federal age restriction relating to rifle or shotgun ownership.)

Federal firearm laws do not mandate any particular licensing or training, although many state laws do. Few states require licensing or training in order merely to own a handgun, although most require some form of license or permit as a way to carry one in public. Some state laws additional distinguish between open and hid carry, and should require licensing for one but not the other.

A small number of states (notably New York and California) will not problem permits to carry a handgun in public unless you possibly can show proof of a credible menace towards your life or property. Although it is authorized to carry a handgun in such places in very limited circumstances, for most people, it's successfully illegal.

Be sure to acquire any licenses or permits you may need before you go shopping on your first handgun.

Concealed Carry

If you plan to buy a handgun for hid carry, know that there are just a few totally different sets of laws that modify by state. Additionally, remember to read our guide on how to decide on a concealed carry handgun for more information.

Constitutional Carry (or Unrestricted)

This is probably the most permissive hid carry paradigm. In the event you can legally own the handgun, you may legally conceal it in public, no license or permit required. Nonetheless, obtaining a license could confer additional privileges. For example, in Arizona, chances are you'll carry anyplace without a permit, besides in bars or eating places that serve alcohol. Acquiring a CCW license lets you carry in these places as well, with the owner's consent. Note that a CCW permit would not override property rights; business owners are free to prohibit weapons on their property for any reason, if they so choose.

Shall-Problem

"Shall-concern" jurisdictions are these in which the sheriff or different related authority will concern CCW permits to anyone who applies for one, barring those who fail to satisfy fundamental eligibility criteria.

Might-Problem

In these places, chances are you'll or could not receive a permit should you apply for one. The government company that makes these decisions does so on a case-by-case foundation and should or might not use goal criteria.

No-Problem

Probably the most restrictive states effectively don't permit civilians to carry at all. Local sheriffs may difficulty a really small number of permits (often to their friends and allies), however average citizens should not rely on getting one.

Selecting the Proper Handgun for You

When you know the law and have a solid understanding of what you wish to accomplish by owning a handgun, you are ready to start researching particular models.

The query of whether to buy a revolver or a semi-computerized handgun is asked by hundreds of individuals every day. Sadly, it's typically framed poorly. The question will not be "Which is healthier?" but "Which is healthier for me?" Neither is inherently superior, so it's essential to make the choice with respect to your needs (which aren't exactly the identical as anybody else's needs).

Revolvers

If you're a brand-new shooter and you aren't yet confident in your ability to handle a handgun safely, a revolver could also be a very good choice. Revolvers are simpler than semi-autos. They have fewer moving parts, in order that they malfunction less usually, and it's simpler to deal with safety and primary shooting fundamentals when you're first learning to handle a handgun. You may additionally need to choose a revolver when you're on a tight budget, because they are usually less expensive.

Revolver drawbacks include low ammunition capacity, sluggish reloads and considerably limited customization options compared to semi-automatics. They make glorious backup weapons for individuals who carry a semi-auto as their major self-defense weapon. Should you choose to carry a revolver as your primary or only protection gun, you'll need to train well and infrequently to mitigate its tactical weaknesses.

Semi-Automated

Semi-computerized handguns are a little harder to make use of, however they're still completely manageable with a bit of practice and patience. With higher ammunition capacities, faster reloads and higher ergonomics, semi-automatics generally make better self and residential-protection handguns. There are also more calibers to select from, as well as a better range of accessories and customized parts.

On the downside, high-quality semi-computerized pistols are inclined to price more than equally well-made revolvers. They're additionally more prone than revolvers to malfunctions (though this is far less of a problem at the moment than it was twenty years ago). High-end semi-automatics made by reputable producers not often malfunction, if ever. Glock and Heckler & Koch firearms have particularly high quality management standards and are exceptionally reliable.

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